One of the newest team members at the Adult Down Syndrome Center brings a wealth of experience working with individuals who have intellectual and developmental disabilities.
“My first job out of college was as a case manager at Misericordia Home in Chicago, where I worked with people who have all different ability levels,” explained Abby Rowley, licensed clinical social worker. “I also worked in schools for eight years, which I enjoyed because I got to work with students who had different challenges, such as learning disabilities and mental health concerns.”
Abby also has a very personal reason for her career choice. Her aunt has Down syndrome and is a patient at the Center.
“My family was very close when I was growing up in Park Ridge, so I spent a lot of time with my aunt. She volunteered at the library but didn’t have much of a social life beyond that, and my family was concerned about her well-being. Then she moved to Misericordia Home and all sorts of opportunities opened up for her. Her quality of life drastically improved.”
Misericordia is a community of care for people with mild to profound developmental disabilities. Many of its residents who have Down syndrome are also patients at the Center.
“My aunt went from being quiet and reserved to having hobbies she found exciting. Her personality really developed, and she became more talkative and outgoing,” shared Abby. “That’s really what we strive for at the Center. We see families that are in the same boat as mine was, and we can help guide and support them so their loved ones can live their best lives.”
In her role as a social worker at the Center, Abby meets with patients and families and provides counseling for behavioral and mental health concerns.
“I’ve enjoyed getting to know patients and their families and offering support. I meet regularly with some patients about a variety of concerns like anxiety, depression and grief. I also help facilitate some of the social groups over Zoom. It’s a great way to interact with patients and engage them with us and each other.”
Abby is only a couple of months into her new role at the Center, but she’s impressed with all she’s seen so far.
“Everyone here is so knowledgeable and dedicated. It’s a small center with a small staff, but they get things done,” she said. “They know the patients and their families, and they care so deeply about them. It’s really inspiring.”
While she educates patients and families, she’s also learning a lot herself.
“Everyone is willing to share their knowledge and experience. I’m also learning from patients; I love hearing their perspectives and ideas and learning about their family dynamics. I’m a parent too, so I can empathize with concerned parents who want what’s best for their loved ones. And there’s so much love coming through the Center from patients and their families. It’s so easy to come to work today because of all the positivity and love.”
About the Adult Down Syndrome Center
The Adult Down Syndrome Center is one of the few primary care clinics in the world devoted to adolescents and adults with Down syndrome. Believing that all individuals are worthy and deserving of compassionate health care and committed to enhancing the well-being of adolescents and adults with Down syndrome, the Center’s mission is to enhance their lives by providing comprehensive, holistic, community-based care and services using a team approach.
The programs and services offered at the Center would not be possible without the generous support of donors.
“It’s wonderful that so many people realize how valuable the Center’s services are and want to support it through philanthropy. These programs truly depend on the generosity of donors,” said Abby. “And the team here is amazing. Not only do they show up every day to do their jobs, but they also work so hard to keep the Center up and running and promote its mission. I’m honored to be a part of it.”
Please consider making a gift today.